question regarding extra-long shafts

I am 6'4" and looking at a new set of irons with shafts that are +1"-+1.75". With this extra length, is it completely necessary to have stiff shafts in these? I am looking at Callaway X-20 Tours, and Callaway X-18's, and some have 'uniflex shafts'. If anyone is familiar with these shafts or has any advice on this situation I would appreciate it. Thank You.

Hi bste,

The uniflex shafts are what the name implies. It's a shaft designed to suit the majority of golfers, with mid swing speeds, say 80-95 mph, so basically in the regular to firm range, not stiff.

So, were you fitted for the extra length, or are you going there because of your height? It's not height that predominately dictates, because you could have shorter legs and a long trunk and/or longer or shorter arms. It's usually the measurement of the wrist to the ground. Stewart Cink is about 6'4" and uses regular length clubs.

Regarding the flex, it is more dependent, on the clubhead speed and trajectory your swing is wanting, not necessarily on length. 95 mph is considered the borderline for going stiff. If you are on the borderline, the general advice is to go for less flex, unless you know you will be increasing your speed and you may want to grow into the stronger flex.

If you've already been fitted by someone knowledgeable at the store or elsewhere, this may all be redundant info for you.


Ted

Hey Ted, thanks for the input. Yeah, I was fitted for length, but didn't have swing speed done. They advised me to use +1, or +1.5". I guess in order to accurately determine stiffness, I would need to get my swing speed. Basically , Callaways preowned site is having a sale and there are some nice irons that have the uniflex shaft. Again, thanks for your help. Are you a fan of the callaway x-20 tours?

Hi bste,

What you can do is go to one of the big box golf stores, if you have access to one which have launch monitors and knowledgeable staff.

Here is a rough guide (about 1/2 way down) for assessing speed, based purely on distances carried with your driver. It's somewhat predictable, but may give you an idea idea, particularly if your distances clearly fall into a certain flex range.od

http://www.golf-in-japan.com/toms.php

I have owned three sets of Callaways, and currently play Fusion irons with graphite shafts and Big Bertha 2007 woods. I am more comfortable with more forgiving irons than the tours.

Ted